Naper Settlement will host the the third annual Naperville Ale Fest from 1-6PM Saturday, July 18.
The tree-shaded grounds will host nearly 100 brewers from Chicagoland and across the country, as well as a handful of hard cider brewers and a new array of food trucks. An expected 5,000 craft brew enthusiasts are expected to attend.
“Whether you’ve been before, are new to craft beer or are an aficionado, there will be plenty of new things for you to discover this year,” said organizer Josh Seago of Lou Dog Events.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Naperville Heritage Society and Naper Settlement.
Presenting Sponsor Solemn Oath will offer the Solemn Oath Lounge, where visitors can relax while sampling six brews by Naperville’s first and only brewery. “Solemn Oath has established themselves as great craft brewers and great community supporters,” said Seago. “Their brewery and tasting room is minutes from here. You can’t get any more local than that.”
In addition, new to the fest this year are several rare and hard to find beers which will be tasted throughout the day. The “House of Funk” tent will offer at least half a dozen sour beers for tasting.
“These are tough to produce and often hard to find,” said Seago. “Our selections represent really sought-after sours, and will provide a really unique experience to fest-goers.”
From burgers, pizza and kabobs to sausages and lobster rolls, foods have been elevated to pair well with ales and cider. Ten food trucks and restaurants will have hearty sustenance for sale
Vendors include Aurelio’s Pizza, Chicago Dawg’s, Dark Horse Pastries, Happy Lobster, Hopvine Brewing Company, O’Mango, Pinstripes, Rockin’ Rodrizio, Toasty Cheese and Windy City Patty Wagon.
General admission tickets include admission, beer sampling, 18 sample tickets, commemorative glass and program guide. General Designated Drivers will receive a commemorative tasting glass as well as complimentary soda and water. VIP tickets are sold out. Tickets to Naperville Ale Fest are available on line at www.napervillealefest.com. Any tickets remaining on Saturday may be purchased at the gate for $50 per person. Only guests 21 and over may enter the Fest. A photo id must be presented with your ticket.
Entrance to the Festival is through the Mitchell Mansion Gate at Naper Settlement on Aurora Ave. immediately east of Naperville Central High School. General admission to the event is from 1-5 pm. The event will be held rain or shine, and no outside food or drink is allowed. Picnic tables are available on site.
Parking is available at the High School, Municipal Center and Downtown Parking Facilities. Handicapped parking is at the Municipal Lot, directly across the street from Naper Settlment, 523 S. Webster St.
